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Volume 17
Issue 11
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Diversity, Volume 17, Issue 11 (November 2025) – 67 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Eulimidae is a hyperdiverse family of marine gastropods, containing species that specifically parasitise Echinodermata. Eulimids are globally distributed but undersampled in many regions. We conducted the first survey for eulimids at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands off the coast of Western Australia (WA)—a well-known tropical-temperature transition zone with numerous potential hosts. Twenty-three eulimids and sixteen hosts, representing all echinoderm classes, were identified from newly collected and legacy museum specimens. Of these, two are new records for Australia and three are new records for WA. Eulimids with similar shells often differed in host choice and position on the host or live appearance, highlighting the contributions that such information can make to resolving taxonomic uncertainties in this group. View this paper
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21 pages, 3095 KB  
Article
PTL-Inception: Integrating Deep Learning and Taxonomy for Desert Plant Classification
by Yonis Gulzar, Zeynep Ünal, Kadir Şahbaz and Mohannad Alkanan
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110806 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Accurate identification of plant species forms the basis of taxonomy, biodiversity assessment, and conservation planning. This requirement is especially urgent in arid ecosystems such as those of Saudi Arabia, where limited rainfall, fragile habitats, and high ecological stress create distinctive but poorly documented [...] Read more.
Accurate identification of plant species forms the basis of taxonomy, biodiversity assessment, and conservation planning. This requirement is especially urgent in arid ecosystems such as those of Saudi Arabia, where limited rainfall, fragile habitats, and high ecological stress create distinctive but poorly documented flora. In this study, a deep learning framework, termed PTL-Inception, was developed to classify desert plants and to provide reliable taxonomic data that can be integrated into biodiversity and phylogenetic studies. A dataset of ten native species was compiled and expanded through augmentation, and several state-of-the-art architectures were tested. InceptionV3 was found to be the most effective baseline, and the network was further modified by incorporating ten additional layers, transfer learning, and hyperparameter tuning. The proposed model achieved an accuracy of 99.46%, with precision and recall values of 99.46% and 99.44%, respectively. Reliability was confirmed through K-fold validation, while early stopping reduced training time with minimal loss of accuracy. Beyond these computational outcomes, the study demonstrates how deep learning can complement traditional taxonomy by producing consistent species-level identifications. The outputs can be combined with spatial and phylogenetic approaches to explore patterns of diversity, endemism, and adaptation in desert ecosystems, thereby supporting conservation strategies and biodiversity management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrating Spatial Phylogenetic, and Taxonomic Approaches to Understand Plant Biodiversity)
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21 pages, 8814 KB  
Review
The Impact of Life History Traits and Defensive Abilities on the Invasiveness of Ulex europaeus L.
by Hisashi Kato-Noguchi and Midori Kato
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 805; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110805 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
Ulex europaeus L. has been introduced into many countries as an ornamental and hedgerow plant, and it often escapes its intended location, establishing dense, feral thickets. These thickets threaten the structure and function of native flora and fauna in areas where the plant [...] Read more.
Ulex europaeus L. has been introduced into many countries as an ornamental and hedgerow plant, and it often escapes its intended location, establishing dense, feral thickets. These thickets threaten the structure and function of native flora and fauna in areas where the plant has been introduced. Because of its invasive nature, U. europaeus is considered one of the world’s 100 worst alien invasive species. It exhibits rapid growth, and high biomass accumulation with a high nitrogen fixation ability. Its flowering phenology depends on local conditions and population. It produces a large number of viable seeds and establishes extensive seed banks. These seeds remain viable for a long time due to physical dormancy. Ulex europaeus produces elaiosomes on the seed surface that are likely used solely for seed dispersal by ants. Ulex europaeus has a high level of genetic diversity due to its allohexaploid chromosome sets. This allows the plant to adapt to different habitats and tolerate various climate conditions. It can survive in areas with limited sunlight beneath tall plant canopies. Its shade tolerance surpasses that of other shrub species. Ulex europaeus produces several compounds, including quinolizidine alkaloids, monoterpenes, flavonoids, and cinnamic acid derivatives. These compounds play a role in defensive responses to biotic stressors, including pathogen infections, herbivorous insects, and neighboring plants competing for resources. These life history traits and defensive abilities may contribute to the expansion of U. europaeus populations into new habitats, enabling the plant to thrive as an invasive species. This is the first study to examine the invasiveness of U. europaeus in terms of its growth, reproduction, ability to adapt to different conditions, and defensive responses to biotic stressors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Alien Species and Their Invasion Processes—2nd Edition)
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22 pages, 4332 KB  
Article
β-Glucosidases: In Silico Analysis of Physicochemical Properties and Domain Architecture Diversity Revealed by Metagenomic Technology
by Thi Quy Nguyen, Thi Huyen Do, Ngoc Giang Le, Hong Duong Nguyen, Trong Khoa Dao, Nho Thai Dinh and Nam Hai Truong
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110804 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
β-Glucosidases, ubiquitous enzymes with significant contribution to several industries were previously identified as diverse in bacterial metagenomes from Vietnamese native goat rumens, wood humus from Cuc Phuong national forest, and termite gut. In this study, we systematically analyzed their sequence diversity, domain architectures, [...] Read more.
β-Glucosidases, ubiquitous enzymes with significant contribution to several industries were previously identified as diverse in bacterial metagenomes from Vietnamese native goat rumens, wood humus from Cuc Phuong national forest, and termite gut. In this study, we systematically analyzed their sequence diversity, domain architectures, domain arrangements, physicochemical properties, and producers associated with their structures, conserving catalytic domains. A total of 833 β-glucosidase sequences were categorized into three families: GH1, GH16, and GH3, forming 30 distinct domain architectures with variable isoelectric points, alkaline scores, and melting temperatures across ecological niches. GH1 enzymes exhibited the lowest architectural diversity, whereas GH16 enzymes were frequently associated with carbohydrate-binding module 4 (CBM4) and CBM12 domains. Over 90% of GH3 enzymes contained fibronectin type III (FN3) and accessory domains such as PA14, CBM6, Big_2, or ExoP, with some harboring secondary catalytic domains. Most goat rumen β-glucosidases originated from cellulosome-producing bacteria. A recombinant β-glucosidase GH3-31 expressed in E. coli exhibited optimal activity at 40 °C (lower than the predicted Tm of 49.8 °C), pH5.5 (near the predicted pI of 5.61), Km of 1.37 mM ± 0.08 mM, and Vmax of 43.17 ± 0.6 U/mg. Its activity was enhanced by Tween 20, Tween 80, Triton X-100, and CTAB. These findings provide a comprehensive resource for β-glucosidase engineering and application-oriented screening. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)
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17 pages, 2512 KB  
Article
Glyphosate-Induced Shifts in Edaphic Microbiota: A Comparative Study of Bacterial and Fungal Responses in Historical Milpa Soils
by María Alejandra Ocaña-Ek, Anell del Carmen García-Romero, Oscar Omar Álvarez-Rivera, Magnolia del Carmen Tzec-Gamboa, Héctor Estrada-Medina and Miriam M. Ferrer
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110803 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 480
Abstract
Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide worldwide and in Mexico; however, its effects on soil microbiota in traditional agroecosystems remain unclear. We evaluated bacterial, archaeal, and fungal responses to commercial glyphosate in three representative karst soils of the Yucatán Peninsula (black Leptosol, [...] Read more.
Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide worldwide and in Mexico; however, its effects on soil microbiota in traditional agroecosystems remain unclear. We evaluated bacterial, archaeal, and fungal responses to commercial glyphosate in three representative karst soils of the Yucatán Peninsula (black Leptosol, red Leptosol, and red Cambisol) historically associated with the Mayan milpa system. The high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rRNA V4 and ITS1 regions was used to assess diversity patterns and differential abundance. Glyphosate application did not significantly alter alpha or beta diversity; however, fifteen taxa classified at the genus level exhibited shifts in relative abundance. Most bacterial taxa were depauperated in treated soils, whereas others, such as Arthrobacter, were enriched after application, indicating the presence of tolerant or resistant bacteria that may play a role in glyphosate degradation. Cordyceps, an entomopathogenic fungus, was depleted, indicating potential for natural pest control. The similarity of the core microbiota between samples with and without glyphosate application indicates that these communities are resilient. Overall, under short-term exposure, glyphosate induced compositional shifts in specific taxa without major effects on community structure but with potential implications for soil functionality and resilience in the Mayan milpa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Diversity in Changing Ecosystems: From Environmental Adaptation Mechanisms to Applications)
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24 pages, 8096 KB  
Article
Diversity and Selection of Superior Algarrobos (Neltuma pallida) Phenotypes in the Natural Dry Forests of Peru for Sustainable Conservation and Genetic Improvement
by Sebastian Casas-Niño, Juan Rodrigo Baselly-Villanueva, Evelin Judith Salazar-Hinostroza, Sheyla Yanett Chumbimune-Vivanco, William Nauray, Nery Tirabante-Terrones, Max Ramirez Rojas and Flavio Lozano-Isla
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110802 - 20 Nov 2025
Viewed by 459
Abstract
Neltuma pallida (algarrobo) is a keystone species of the Peruvian dry forest whose persistence is threatened by overexploitation and habitat degradation, making its conservation and genetic improvement a national priority. This study aimed to identify outstanding phenotypes of N. pallida through phenotypic characterization [...] Read more.
Neltuma pallida (algarrobo) is a keystone species of the Peruvian dry forest whose persistence is threatened by overexploitation and habitat degradation, making its conservation and genetic improvement a national priority. This study aimed to identify outstanding phenotypes of N. pallida through phenotypic characterization in the regions of Piura and Tumbes in northern Peru. A stratified random sampling design was applied, establishing forest plots in 13 localities and evaluating 631 adult individuals. Dendrometric and phenotypic traits were recorded together with physiographic, climatic, and edaphic variables obtained from soil analyses and geographic information systems. Phenotypic differentiation among populations was assessed using the index PST, which quantifies between- and within-population variance components. High morphological variability was detected across populations, with significant differences in tree height, diameter, and fruit production, largely explained by environmental heterogeneity, particularly soil fertility and organic matter. The PST values, ranging from 0.83 to 0.98, revealed strong phenotypic divergence among populations, suggesting adaptive differentiation rather than neutral variation. Eight superior individuals were identified as potential candidates for inclusion in a germplasm bank to support breeding and restoration programs. This study provides a scientific basis for the sustainable management and conservation of N. pallida in the arid ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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16 pages, 1809 KB  
Article
Urban Foraging and Plant Toxicological Risks for Rose-Ringed Parakeets (Psittacula krameri) in Athens
by Mathis A. B. Christodoulopoulos, Efthimia Cotou, Nektarios Politakis, Nikolaos Tsekouras, Vasileios V. Paraskeuas, Yannis Kotzamanis, Georgios Christodoulopoulos and Athanasios C. Pappas
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110801 - 18 Nov 2025
Viewed by 280
Abstract
The Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri) is an invasive parrot increasingly established in European cities, including Athens, Greece, yet its diet and exposure to plant toxins in Mediterranean ecosystems remain poorly documented. We examined seasonal foraging patterns in Athens and assessed the [...] Read more.
The Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri) is an invasive parrot increasingly established in European cities, including Athens, Greece, yet its diet and exposure to plant toxins in Mediterranean ecosystems remain poorly documented. We examined seasonal foraging patterns in Athens and assessed the toxicity of key food items using a brine shrimp lethality assay. Field observations recorded 601 feeding events across 10 plant species. Four foods—cypress seeds (Cupressus sempervirens), chinaberries (Melia azedarach), Canary Island dates (Phoenix canariensis), and olives (Olea europaea)—accounted for 82.9% of feeding events. Dietary diversity was highest in winter and summer, while foraging density remained relatively stable, peaking in autumn. Toxicity assessment of aqueous plant extracts with Brine Shrimp (Artemia franciscana) Lethality Test (BSLT) identified chinaberries as the most toxic, indicating potential dietary risks. These findings indicate that P. krameri exhibits flexible, opportunistic foraging and can tolerate plant compounds that are harmful to other vertebrates, suggesting that toxicity does not seem to limit its diet. Seasonal dietary shifts and ecological plasticity likely support its urban invasion success, highlighting the importance of understanding diet composition and potential exposure to plant toxins in urban parakeet populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Mediterranean Biodiversity, 2nd Edition)
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25 pages, 6508 KB  
Article
Environmental DNA Reveals Fish Diversity Reestablishment of China’s Lake Ecosystem Driven by Extreme Drought and Human Intervention
by Yingchun Xing, Kai Li, Wanru Gao, Yucheng Wang, Ting Jiang, Rui Xi, Huiqin Li and Yahui Zhao
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110800 - 17 Nov 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
Extreme droughts caused by current climate changes affect the diversity, composition and function of fish communities in lake ecosystems. Poyang Lake is the largest freshwater lake in China, and it is home to many important avian, fish and aquatic mammals. In 2022, Poyang [...] Read more.
Extreme droughts caused by current climate changes affect the diversity, composition and function of fish communities in lake ecosystems. Poyang Lake is the largest freshwater lake in China, and it is home to many important avian, fish and aquatic mammals. In 2022, Poyang Lake experienced one of the most severe droughts in recorded history. Understanding how fish communities responded to this event can offer key knowledge in developing strategies for coping with future climatic extremes, particularly given that the local government has been actively posting several middle- to long-term policies on managing the fish diversity of Poyang Lake, including fishery resource supplements and the well-known “ten-year fishing ban”. To understand how the fish diversity of Poyang Lake has been altered by climate change and human interventions, here, we analyzed the α- and β-taxonomic diversity (TD) and functional diversity (FD) of fish species using environmental DNA (eDNA), and we compared the fish diversity and community changes before and after the 2022 drought. In total, 77 native fish species and 4 invasive species were detected. The species richness and Shannon–Wiener index decreased significantly, and Simpson’s index had no significant difference post-drought. Rao’s Quadratic Entropy (Rao’sQE) index increased significantly, and the Functional Evenness (FEve) index decreased significantly. The differences in α- and β-TD and FD in the north part and south part of Poyang Lake also reflect the impact of drought. When calculating biodiversity contribution rates of the different species, we found that small-sized species were dominant pre-drought, while medium- and large-sized species were predominant post-drought. These patterns indicate that the fish community of Poyang Lake is undergoing a reestablishing process after the extreme drought. This fish community reestablishment post-drought does not correspond to the natural process of community recovery; instead, it is the result of human intervention while being affected by drought brought about by climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications on Environmental DNA in Aquatic Ecology and Biodiversity)
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19 pages, 2148 KB  
Article
Benthic Producers, Methane Carbon, and Diazotrophic Nitrogen as Sources of Nutrients in the Food Web of a Subarctic Lake
by Nadezhda A. Berezina, Yulia I. Gubelit and Alexey A. Maximov
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110799 - 17 Nov 2025
Viewed by 298
Abstract
The majority of research on food webs has focused on temperate lakes, and little is known about the food web of lakes in polar regions. Subarctic lakes are particularly sensitive to climate change, which affects their stability. Therefore, the trophic structure of the [...] Read more.
The majority of research on food webs has focused on temperate lakes, and little is known about the food web of lakes in polar regions. Subarctic lakes are particularly sensitive to climate change, which affects their stability. Therefore, the trophic structure of the food web in such lakes was considered as the object of this study. We studied a clear-water oligotrophic lake located in the subarctic region of Eurasia, specifically in northern Karelia and the White Sea coast of Russia. The study examined both open water periods (summer–autumn) and ice-covered periods (winter–spring) in this lake. Stable isotope analysis of carbon (13C/12C ratio or δ13C value) and nitrogen (15N/14N, δ15N) in producers and consumers was applied and revealed significant seasonal variations in the structure of the food web. The results indicate the presence of both pelagic and littoral/benthic food web compartments, with a notable contribution of autochthonous carbon derived from benthic sources. Omnivorous fish (perch, Perca fluviatilis; vendace, Coregonus albula; nine-spined sticklebacks, Pungitius pungitius) and some benthic invertebrates (mayfly, Ephemera vulgata; bivalves, Sphaerium corneum) had intermediate δ13C values, integrating these compartments by obtaining resources from both. Planktonic invertebrates had significantly depleted 13C, with the lowest δ13C value reaching −41.7‰, indicating an important contribution of methane-derived carbon. The study also revealed close trophic relationships between lake invertebrates and cyanobacteria, namely with planktonic Dolichospermum lemmermannii and benthic Phormidium sp. Seasonal changes in δ15N values and in trophic position have been observed among predacious omnivorous fish and crustaceans (amphipods, Gammaracanthus loricatus, and copepods, Cyclops scutifer), which are capable of a generalist feeding strategy depending on food availability. Using the example of this lake, it can be concluded that polar lake ecosystems are characterized by different seasonal intakes of allochthonous organic carbon from wetland catchment (humic compounds) and nitrogen because of nitrogen fixation in the air by cyanoprocaryotes. Alternative energy sources, such as carbon derived from methane, can also contribute to the energy balance of lake ecosystems. This study contributes to our understanding of energy flow and connectivity between producers and consumers in high-latitude lakes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 15th Anniversary of Diversity—Biodiversity, Conservation and Ecology of Animals, Plants and Microorganisms)
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14 pages, 1502 KB  
Article
Effects of Temperature and Precipitation at Large Spatial Scales on Genetic Diversity, Genetic Structure, and Potential Distribution of Agropyron michnoi
by Zhuo Zhang, Ruyan Song, Tingting Yang and Chan Zhou
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110798 - 16 Nov 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
The genetic diversity and the genetic structure of widely distributed species are meaningful to explore plant adaptation mechanisms to the environment. This study investigated the effects of climatic factors on the genetic diversity and structure of Agropyron michnoi, and modeled its large-scale [...] Read more.
The genetic diversity and the genetic structure of widely distributed species are meaningful to explore plant adaptation mechanisms to the environment. This study investigated the effects of climatic factors on the genetic diversity and structure of Agropyron michnoi, and modeled its large-scale potential distribution shifts. A. michnoi was studied under different temperature and precipitation gradients on grassland of Inner Mongolia and North China using rbcL and trnL-F sequences. The results showed that the genetic diversity of A. michnoi was low and significantly influenced by precipitation. AMOVA results showed that genetic variation in A. michnoi occurred mainly within the population, accounting for 70.57%. Both Mantel test and partial Mantel test support a significant IBE pattern. STRUCTURE and UPGMA analyses divided the populations into two clusters. Population 10 was closely related to one cluster. The haplotype network shows only one cluster H1, and all other haplotypes have evolved from H1, which is likely the ancestral haplotype. A. michnoi, as a widely distributed species. Originating from a primitive haplotype. Large scale precipitation caused genetic differentiation into two genetic branches. The MaxEnt model predicts that A. michnoi’s distribution has expanded since the Last Glacial Maximum and will shift to higher elevations in the future due to climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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22 pages, 1953 KB  
Review
Ecological Restoration in Laurentian Great Lakes Wetlands: A Literature Review
by Dominique Rumball, Scott M. Reid and Nicholas E. Mandrak
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 797; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110797 - 16 Nov 2025
Viewed by 495
Abstract
The Laurentian Great Lakes basin, the largest surface freshwater ecosystem in the world, is heavily impacted by anthropogenic stressors including wetland degradation and loss. Ecological restoration has been identified as a tool to conserve and manage Great Lakes wetlands where studies undergo planning, [...] Read more.
The Laurentian Great Lakes basin, the largest surface freshwater ecosystem in the world, is heavily impacted by anthropogenic stressors including wetland degradation and loss. Ecological restoration has been identified as a tool to conserve and manage Great Lakes wetlands where studies undergo planning, action, and evaluation stages. A review of 57 studies (1967–2023) on Great Lakes coastal and inland wetlands was conducted to determine when and where ecological restoration is occurring, what approaches are being taken, and how effective they are. Restoration occurred most in coastal wetlands located in the United States of America and Lake Erie. The most implemented monitoring designs were control-impact and before-after-control-impact designs. A common ecological objective of restoration was altering species composition for invasive species management. Studies targeting changes in biological communities integrated ecological theory well within the three stages of restoration. Variable restoration effectiveness was detected, where a mix of ecological objectives were targeted and monitored through many study designs. Future restoration efforts would benefit from greater financial and monitoring investments (especially during the planning stage), continued integration of ecological theory, development of lake-specific benchmarks to assess restoration success, and a collaborative approach that includes practitioner knowledge and Traditional Ecological Knowledge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecological Restoration, Functioning and Conservation of Coastal Wetlands)
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23 pages, 5702 KB  
Article
All Is Not Quiet on the Western Front: High Host–Parasite (Echinodermata and Caenogastropoda) Diversity Revealed at an Australian Marine Transition Zone
by Henry Carrick and Lisa Kirkendale
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110796 - 14 Nov 2025
Viewed by 453
Abstract
While substantial eulimid diversity has been revealed in the Indo-West Pacific marine diversity hotspot, many neighbouring areas are still unexplored, including in Western Australia. The Houtman Abrolhos are a unique chain of islands in a well-characterised marine transition zone where tropical and temperate [...] Read more.
While substantial eulimid diversity has been revealed in the Indo-West Pacific marine diversity hotspot, many neighbouring areas are still unexplored, including in Western Australia. The Houtman Abrolhos are a unique chain of islands in a well-characterised marine transition zone where tropical and temperate waters meet along the mid-west coast. During a biodiversity survey of the islands in 2025, sixty-two eulimids from 15 stations were collected, a family of marine gastropods never-before documented from this region. Here we incorporate newly collected and legacy material from the Western Australian Museum to illustrate 23 new eulimid morphospecies records for the Houtman Abrolhos. Sixteen hosts, representing all five classes of Echinodermata, were identified. Most eulimids were attached externally to their hosts, though Stilifer utinomii and two unidentified species of Melanella were found embedded in Disasterina longispina and Actinopyga mauritiana, respectively. Apicalia angulata, Peasistilifer nitidula and Stilifer utinomii are newly recorded for Western Australia, and Thyca ectoconcha and Vitreobalcis tripneusticola are new Australian records. The biogeographic affinities of these symbionts, like other marine life surveyed in the Houtman Abrolhos islands, are overwhelmingly tropical in nature, representing in many instances the southernmost records of otherwise widespread Indo-West Pacific species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Diversity)
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12 pages, 2323 KB  
Article
A New Species of Encotyllabe Diesing, 1850 (Monopisthocotylea: Capsalidae), from the Pharyngeal Plates of Sciaena deliciosa (Tschudi, 1846) (Eupercaria: Sciaenidae) in Peru, with Notes on the Nomenclatural Status of E. callaoensis Tantaleán, 1974
by Andrés Huerta, Carlos Villena, Moises Ramos, Joanna Rojas, Kelly Milla, Aarón Mondragón-Martínez, Luis Ñacari, Celso Luis Cruces and Jhon Darly Chero
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110795 - 14 Nov 2025
Viewed by 352
Abstract
A new species of Encotyllabe Diesing, 1850 (Monopisthocotylea: Capsalidae), Encotyllabe tantaliani n. sp., is described from the pharyngeal plates of the Lorna drum, Sciaena deliciosa (Tschudi, 1846) (Eupercaria: Sciaenidae), collected from two localities along the Peruvian coast. This new species was originally proposed [...] Read more.
A new species of Encotyllabe Diesing, 1850 (Monopisthocotylea: Capsalidae), Encotyllabe tantaliani n. sp., is described from the pharyngeal plates of the Lorna drum, Sciaena deliciosa (Tschudi, 1846) (Eupercaria: Sciaenidae), collected from two localities along the Peruvian coast. This new species was originally proposed as E. callaoensis Tantaleán, 1974, in an unpublished doctoral thesis, and is herein recognized as a nomen nudum under the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN). Encotyllabe tantaliani n. sp. is distinguished from all known congeners by the following combination of morphological features: (1) an anteriorly tapering body proper, (2) slightly lobed testes markedly larger than the ovary, (3) vitelline follicles beginning at the level of the male copulatory organ (MCO) and absent from the regions of the reproductive organs, (4) a genital pore positioned posterolateral to the pharynx, and (5) an oblong-shaped MCO. Phylogenetic analysis based on cox1 sequence places E. tantaliani n. sp. in a clade with Encotyllabe percussa Morales-Ávila, Jufaili & Ogawa, 2024, a parasite of Lethrinus nebulosus (Forsskål, 1775) (Eupercaria: Lethrinidae) from the Arabian Gulf. Pairwise genetic distances support the distinctiveness of the new species from its closest congeners. Encotyllabe tantaliani n. sp. represents the first species of the genus described from a host belonging to the Sciaenidae host. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity and Phylogenetics of Parasites in Aquatic Animals)
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20 pages, 7877 KB  
Article
Draft Genome Assembly of Parnassius epaphus Provides New Insights into Transposable Elements That Drive Genome Expansion in Alpine Parnassius butterflies
by Wantao Rong, Nan Wei, Jing Song, Guole Qin and Delong Guan
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110794 - 13 Nov 2025
Viewed by 529
Abstract
The expansion of genomes is a major evolutionary force, yet its role in facilitating adaptation to extreme environments remains enigmatic. Here, we investigate alpine Parnassius butterflies, a rare genus characterized by exceptionally large genomes, to unravel the interplay between genome architecture and [...] Read more.
The expansion of genomes is a major evolutionary force, yet its role in facilitating adaptation to extreme environments remains enigmatic. Here, we investigate alpine Parnassius butterflies, a rare genus characterized by exceptionally large genomes, to unravel the interplay between genome architecture and high-altitude colonization. We present a new, 1.46 Gb draft genome assembly for Parnassius epaphus and perform a comparative analysis across six species. Our findings reveal a massive 3- to 5-fold genome expansion driven predominantly by Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINEs). Counterintuitively, we discover that larger genomes possess a proportionally smaller fraction of young, active transposable elements (TEs), challenging the prevailing paradigm that recent TE proliferation is the primary driver of genome size. Instead, our temporal analysis demonstrates that this expansion is a legacy of two ancient TE waves (~8 and ~14 Mya), which remarkably coincide with major uplift phases of the Tibetan Plateau. We propose a model where the selective retention of these ancient TEs, mechanistically linked to major geological upheavals, provided the crucial genomic plasticity for colonizing Earth’s most extreme terrestrial habitats. This study re-frames TEs not merely as genomic parasites but as pivotal architects of adaptive genome evolution in response to profound environmental change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation of Endangered Animal Biodiversity from Genetic and Genomic Perspectives)
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32 pages, 2795 KB  
Review
How Will Environmental Conditions Affect Species Distribution and Survival in the Coming Decades—A Review
by Pavel Kindlmann, Spyros Tsiftsis, Lucie Buchbauerová, Iva Traxmandlová and Zuzana Štípková
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110793 - 13 Nov 2025
Viewed by 981
Abstract
Species are disappearing worldwide and the expectation is that this will increase in the future. This review summarizes information on the reasons for the global reduction in biodiversity and what might happen in the future. The literature indicates that the most important factors [...] Read more.
Species are disappearing worldwide and the expectation is that this will increase in the future. This review summarizes information on the reasons for the global reduction in biodiversity and what might happen in the future. The literature indicates that the most important factors responsible for this are changes in climate and land use. As changes in land use result in the destruction of natural habitats, they are thought to be the prime driver in the future. Climate change is, however, also often cited as a major driving force. To reduce the effect of climate change on the decline in biodiversity, it is important to know, how climate change affects the abundance and distribution of species. A particular emphasis should be placed not only on conserving specific species but also the environment and communities they live in. In addition, there are many other factors that might play a role, e.g., overexploitation, eutrophication and the introduction and spread of invasive non-native species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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19 pages, 1362 KB  
Review
Diversity and Environmental Challenges in the Ecuadorian Amazon: Integrating Agriculture and Conservation in the Face of Deforestation
by Roy Vera-Velez and Raúl Ramos-Veintimilla
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110792 - 12 Nov 2025
Viewed by 611
Abstract
The biosphere is undergoing critical transformations due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and logging, which have led to biodiversity loss, degradation of ecosystem services, and climate change. In tropical forests such as the Ecuadorian Amazon, these pressures are especially severe because reductions in forest [...] Read more.
The biosphere is undergoing critical transformations due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and logging, which have led to biodiversity loss, degradation of ecosystem services, and climate change. In tropical forests such as the Ecuadorian Amazon, these pressures are especially severe because reductions in forest cover compromise key ecological processes. The purpose of this article is to analyze the relationship between shifting agriculture, food security, and conservation in the Ecuadorian Amazon, with emphasis on the agroforestry system known as the chakra practiced by Kichwa communities. This model integrates crops such as cacao, maize, and cassava with native trees, without chemical inputs, and constitutes a practice that is both culturally significant and environmentally sustainable. Whereas conventional shifting agriculture tends to reduce soil fertility and the forest’s regenerative capacity, chakras maintain important levels of floristic diversity, favor the conservation of endemic species, and provide ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and nutrient regulation. In this sense, chakras represent a resilient yet context-dependent agroforestry alternative that connects food security and sovereignty, biological conservation, income, Indigenous identity, and climate-change mitigation, although their long-term sustainability remains influenced by market forces, land-use pressure, and policy support in tropical contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity, Community Structure and Ecology of Terrestrial Ecosystems Under Global Change)
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18 pages, 5762 KB  
Article
Impact of the 2023–2024 ENSO Event of the North Pacific Coral Reefs of Costa Rica
by Juan José Alvarado, Fabio Quesada-Perez, María J. Solano, Maricruz Calvo-Fong and Sebastián Mena
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 791; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110791 - 12 Nov 2025
Viewed by 796
Abstract
Coral reefs are increasingly impacted by marine heatwaves and global warming, with the 2023–2024 El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) event causing unprecedented thermal stress across the Eastern Tropical Pacific. This study assessed the effects of this event on coral reefs in the Gulf of [...] Read more.
Coral reefs are increasingly impacted by marine heatwaves and global warming, with the 2023–2024 El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) event causing unprecedented thermal stress across the Eastern Tropical Pacific. This study assessed the effects of this event on coral reefs in the Gulf of Papagayo, Costa Rica. Sea surface temperatures exceeded the bleaching threshold for seven months, reaching a record 10.2 Degree Heating Weeks—twice the levels recorded during the 1997–1998 ENSO. Benthic and fish community surveys revealed severe coral mortality, particularly in Pocillopora-dominated reefs, with some sites losing over 90% of live coral cover. Resilience varied across sites, likely influenced by factors such as local water circulation, coral genetic diversity, symbiont type, and heterotrophic capacity. Reefs with higher genetic diversity and thermally tolerant Durusdinium symbionts showed partial recovery. Seasonal upwelling appeared to buffer thermal stress in some areas, potentially acting as a natural climate refuge. Bleaching also impacted reef fish communities, with a notable decline in invertebrate-feeding species on degraded reefs. These findings highlight the interplay between prolonged thermal stress, coral biology, and local oceanographic processes in shaping reef resilience. Identifying and protecting such climate refugia will be critical for coral conservation under future climate change scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-Physiology of Shallow Benthic Communities)
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12 pages, 4272 KB  
Article
The Relationship Between Abundance and Actual Spatial Distribution of Terrestrial Isopods (Oniscidea)
by Martin Martinka and Ivan Hadrián Tuf
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 790; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110790 - 11 Nov 2025
Viewed by 330
Abstract
(1) Studying the spatial distribution of wingless arthropods restricted to the Earth’s surface presents numerous challenges. In this study, we focused on the spatial distribution of terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea) within a managed forest ecosystem, examining relationships among abundance, variance, occupancy, and clumpiness (i.e., [...] Read more.
(1) Studying the spatial distribution of wingless arthropods restricted to the Earth’s surface presents numerous challenges. In this study, we focused on the spatial distribution of terrestrial isopods (Oniscidea) within a managed forest ecosystem, examining relationships among abundance, variance, occupancy, and clumpiness (i.e., aggregation) to highlight their significant roles in the observed phenomena. (2) Terrestrial isopods were collected using pitfall traps along a gradient spanning deforested and forested areas. For analysis, we employed summary statistics to describe the community using 18 different coefficients. Abundance–variance and abundance–occupancy models, together with Taylor’s power law and ordination symbol plots were performed. (3) Nearly 1000 individuals representing 8 species were identified and analyzed. All species exhibited a clumped distribution; however, Ligidium hypnorum displayed the highest degree of clumpiness, which resulted in notably low frequency and constancy despite its high overall abundance. Shrubs were the habitat with the highest rate of aggregation. Most species concentrated their individuals in just up to 5 of the 75 pitfall traps, with the remaining traps typically containing fewer or no individuals. (4) Species that are highly abundant on a local scale can be surprisingly limited in their spatial distribution, making their assumed dominance questionable and causing them to deviate from established trends. Awareness of species-specific traits and attention to such details can progressively improve the interpretation of observed ecological patterns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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13 pages, 2161 KB  
Article
Occurrence of Halarachne halichoeri in Mirounga leonina on the Coast of Argentina (Parasitiformes, Mesostigmata, Halarachnidae) with a Review of Worldwide Records
by Marcela Karina Castelo and Juan Pablo Loureiro
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110789 - 10 Nov 2025
Viewed by 305
Abstract
Halarachne halichoeri mites are respiratory parasites of pinnipeds that have been recorded from different locations around the world, but not from the coast of Argentina. In this study, the presence of H. halichoeri on the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina, is documented [...] Read more.
Halarachne halichoeri mites are respiratory parasites of pinnipeds that have been recorded from different locations around the world, but not from the coast of Argentina. In this study, the presence of H. halichoeri on the southern elephant seal, Mirounga leonina, is documented for the first time in the Argentinean mainland, specifically in the Paraná River on the Buenos Aires coast. A total of 4130 adult and immature mites (90.4% larvae, 0% nymphs, 9.2% females and 0.4% males) were collected from the nose and nasopharyngeal cavity of a stranded juvenile male during a necropsy. The species was identified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and stereomicroscope photography, and the morphological characteristics of the females and males are shown. Also, images of the male are shown for the first time, with observable details of traits. We also propose a method for simple sex recognition. Finally, we provide a revision of global records of geographic distribution of H. halichoeri in wild marine mammals. The present record of occurrence of the species H. halichoeri in Argentina expands our knowledge about the distribution area known to date for this species of marine parasite. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diversity, Ecology, and Conservation of Mites)
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24 pages, 9429 KB  
Article
Spatial–Temporal Patterns of Mammal Diversity and Abundance in Three Vegetation Types in a Semi-Arid Landscape in Southeastern Coahuila, Mexico
by Erika J. Cruz-Bazan, Jorge E. Ramírez-Albores, Juan A. Encina-Domínguez, José A. Hernández-Herrera and Eber G. Chavez-Lugo
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 788; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110788 - 10 Nov 2025
Viewed by 378
Abstract
The grasslands and shrublands of northern and central Mexico cover nearly 25% of the country and harbor high biodiversity. However, they are increasingly degraded by agriculture, urbanization, infrastructure development, and water overexploitation. To assess the status of medium- and large-sized mammals in these [...] Read more.
The grasslands and shrublands of northern and central Mexico cover nearly 25% of the country and harbor high biodiversity. However, they are increasingly degraded by agriculture, urbanization, infrastructure development, and water overexploitation. To assess the status of medium- and large-sized mammals in these threatened ecosystems, we quantified species richness, relative abundance, and naïve occupancy across vegetation types and seasons. From April 2023 to February 2024, monthly track surveys and camera trapping were performed, and the data were analyzed in R. We documented 16 species representing four orders and nine families, with Carnivora being the most diverse (eight species). The species richness varied by habitat, ranging from 11 in montane forest to 13 in semi-desert grassland, the latter habitat having the highest Shannon and Simpson indices, particularly in the dry season. Odocoileus virginianus and Sylvilagus audubonii were consistently the most abundant species in montane forest and desert scrub, whereas Cynomys mexicanus predominated in semi-desert grasslands, accounting for >90% of detections during the rainy season. Rare species included Lynx rufus, Taxidea taxus, and Ursus americanus, each with isolated detections. Rarefaction and sample coverage curves approached asymptotes (>99%), indicating sufficient sampling effort. Naïve occupancy and encounter rates were highest for O. virginianus (0.82) and S. audubonii (0.68), with a strong positive correlation between the two metrics (r2 = 0.92). These findings provide robust baseline information on mammalian diversity, abundance, and habitat associations in semi-arid anthropogenic landscapes, supporting future monitoring and conservation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildlife in Natural and Altered Environments)
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15 pages, 3231 KB  
Article
Target-Tree Management Enhances Understory Biodiversity and Productivity in Larix principis-rupprechtii Plantations
by Yuxuan Wang, Zhongbao Zhao, Ping Zheng, Shu Wu and Liqiang Mu
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 787; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110787 - 9 Nov 2025
Viewed by 365
Abstract
Northern artificial forests play a vital role in enhancing carbon sequestration and ecosystem services, yet quantitative evidence on how different management measures affect understory biodiversity and productivity remains limited. This study focused on Larix gmelinii var. principis-rupprechtii (Mayr) Pilg. plantations in Weichang, Hebei [...] Read more.
Northern artificial forests play a vital role in enhancing carbon sequestration and ecosystem services, yet quantitative evidence on how different management measures affect understory biodiversity and productivity remains limited. This study focused on Larix gmelinii var. principis-rupprechtii (Mayr) Pilg. plantations in Weichang, Hebei Province, and compared three forest management regimes: target-tree management, homogeneous management, and un-managed stands. We systematically examined understory plant diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson, Margalef, Gleason, and Pielou), shrub–herb layer biomass, soil organic carbon (SOC), and total nitrogen (TN), and employed correlation analysis and random forest modeling to identify the main driving factors. Results showed that target-tree management significantly enhanced both understory biodiversity and shrub–herb biomass, followed by homogeneous management, while unmanaged stands had the lowest values. Differences in SOC and TN among treatments were not significant. Stand structural factors were the dominant drivers: stand density and basal area were negatively correlated with diversity and biomass, while community evenness (Pielou) was positively correlated with biomass. Random forest analysis further indicated that basal area and stand density had the highest relative importance, followed by evenness, whereas soil factors contributed less. Mechanistically, target-tree management improved light availability and spatial distribution by reducing stand density, thereby increasing evenness and promoting biomass accumulation. Overall, optimizing stand structure, rather than merely increasing species richness, proved more effective in simultaneously enhancing biodiversity and productivity in light-limited Larix plantations. From a management perspective, target-tree management combined with density regulation and structural optimization is recommended to achieve near-natural management goals and enhance multiple ecological functions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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26 pages, 1883 KB  
Article
Scale-Dependent Drivers of Plant Community Turnover in a Disturbed Grassland: Insights from Generalized Dissimilarity Modeling
by Zhengjun Wang, Zhenhai Guan, Liuhui Xu and Sishu Zhao
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 786; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110786 - 8 Nov 2025
Viewed by 320
Abstract
Identifying the key drivers of plant community turnover under disturbance is essential for understanding ecological processes and informing conservation efforts. We investigated the Kangxi Grassland in the Yeyahu Wetland Nature Reserve, Beijing, using Generalized Dissimilarity Modeling (GDM) across two spatial scales and three [...] Read more.
Identifying the key drivers of plant community turnover under disturbance is essential for understanding ecological processes and informing conservation efforts. We investigated the Kangxi Grassland in the Yeyahu Wetland Nature Reserve, Beijing, using Generalized Dissimilarity Modeling (GDM) across two spatial scales and three areas, integrating soil properties, remote sensing data, and geographic distance. The models explained 25–49% of the deviance with low cross-validation error, showing a clear nonlinear turnover pattern. Pronounced species replacement occurred at short ecological distances, followed by slower change at greater distances. Although the overall patterns were similar, driver importance varied among areas: available nitrogen (AN) dominated in the Southeast Area, while soil water content (SWC) was the primary driver in the Northwest Area and across the entire Study Area; in all cases, geographic distance consistently ranked second. Texture indices, although weaker than geographic distance, still outperformed most vegetation indices and spectral bands. These results indicate that soil properties, geographic distance, and texture indices jointly shape spatial patterns of species turnover, with their relative importance varying by scale or area. Disturbances, such as drought, grazing, tourism, and fluctuations in inundated areas caused by variations in water levels in a nearby reservoir, influenced species turnover by directly or indirectly altering key drivers. In combination with a comparative analysis of species importance values (IVs) and ecological types, this study further demonstrates that the factors driving species turnover are influenced not only by scale but also by the complex and diverse ecological processes operating at their respective scales. It also shows the applicability of GDM in analyzing fine-scale turnover patterns and the factors driving them in disturbed grasslands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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21 pages, 1397 KB  
Article
Ethnobotanical Assessment of the Diversity of Wild Edible Plants and Potential Contribution to Enhance Sustainable Food Security in Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
by Afnan Alqethami
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110785 - 8 Nov 2025
Viewed by 588
Abstract
Wild edible plants contribute significantly to food security, environmental protection, cultural heritage preservation, economic diversification, and the development of communities. In this paper, we present an inaugural ethnobotanical investigation of the traditional knowledge on wild edible plant species from Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi [...] Read more.
Wild edible plants contribute significantly to food security, environmental protection, cultural heritage preservation, economic diversification, and the development of communities. In this paper, we present an inaugural ethnobotanical investigation of the traditional knowledge on wild edible plant species from Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Ethnobotanical fieldwork was conducted in Makkah from January to February 2025. Ethnobotanical data pertaining to wild edible plants were collected from 102 informants through free listing, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and a survey of the market. The data were analyzed based on descriptive statistics, the relative frequency of citation, preference ranking, and priority ranking. Forty-one out of one hundred and eighty-four wild plants were gathered and recognized as wild edible plant species belonging to twenty-one families. Poaceae showed the greatest species diversity, comprising five plant species (12%). Phoenix dactylifera L. is the most common wild edible plant. Notably, 11 of the 41 wild edible plants identified in this study had never been reported in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia before. Wild edible plants are currently threatened by several anthropogenic sources in the research region, including overgrazing, fuel wood collection, and the repeated use of multiple species. Therefore, to ensure sustainable future usage, wild food plants must be used carefully and should be the subject of targeted conservation efforts from all stakeholders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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15 pages, 5474 KB  
Article
The Correlation Between High-Fluoride Hot Springs and Microbial Community Structure and Diversity
by Haolin Gong, Qi Wang, Li Yang and Jiajia Liao
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110784 - 8 Nov 2025
Viewed by 276
Abstract
High-fluoride hot springs serve as a natural laboratory for investigating microbial adaptation and variations in community structure under extreme environments. This study utilized water chemistry analysis and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the correlation between high-fluoride hot springs and microbial community structure [...] Read more.
High-fluoride hot springs serve as a natural laboratory for investigating microbial adaptation and variations in community structure under extreme environments. This study utilized water chemistry analysis and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the correlation between high-fluoride hot springs and microbial community structure and diversity. The results show that the five hot springs exhibited an average F− content of 15.04 mg/L, with weakly alkaline pH, high total dissolved solids, and Na+ as the dominant cation. The hydrochemical type was classified as HCO3⋅SO4-Na, consistent with the chemical characteristics of high-fluorine water. Microbial abundance and diversity were significantly reduced in the hot springs as compared to the surface water and groundwater samples. The dominant phyla in the study area included Pseudomonadota, Cyanobacteriota, Bacteroidota, and Actinomycetota. The genus-level composition varied significantly across samples, with no dominant genus observed universally. The specific genera present in different samples exhibit unique functional attributes, such as Tepidimonas, Rhodobacter, Hyphomonas, Parvibaculum, Polynucleobacter and Limnohabitans. Cluster analysis confirmed that dissimilarity coefficients highlight the significant influence of microbial abundance on inter-sample differences among hot springs. Redundancy analysis of the top 11 phyla by abundance in water samples revealed that the presence of F− exerts inhibitory effects on microbial growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microbial Diversity and Culture Collections)
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16 pages, 2436 KB  
Article
DNA Barcoding Applications in Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
by Jue Wang, Dongqing Liu, Zhilin Chen and Congcong Du
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110783 - 7 Nov 2025
Viewed by 644
Abstract
Taxonomy is fundamental to all organismic research. Therefore, the integration of molecular and morphological data is increasingly encouraged for more accurate species identification. However, the emphasis on and application of DNA barcoding methods appear to vary across different taxonomic groups. Ants, among the [...] Read more.
Taxonomy is fundamental to all organismic research. Therefore, the integration of molecular and morphological data is increasingly encouraged for more accurate species identification. However, the emphasis on and application of DNA barcoding methods appear to vary across different taxonomic groups. Ants, among the most prominent invertebrate groups, seem to have their taxonomic research primarily focused on morphological characteristics, with studies incorporating molecular species identification remaining relatively underrepresented. Thus, understanding the application profile of DNA barcoding in ants can provide guidance for future taxonomic research. By downloading and analyzing 350,686 sequences of eight gene fragments from the NCBI and BOLD databases, it was found that COI remains the most prevalent molecular marker, yet sequences vary in length. Only 190,880 sequences (67%) meet or exceed the standard length (658 bp), covering 15 subfamilies, 273 genera, and 3226 species (<23.00%). Among COI sequences, 32,444 sequences (9.60%) are unidentified species, spanning 12 subfamilies and 175 genera; sequences from Europe and America dominate (60%), while those from China are exceptionally scarce (0.35%). DNA barcoding analysis of representative sequences revealed inconsistencies with annotated species for some entries. These findings demonstrate that molecular data for ants are extremely limited, and existing data exhibit significant spatial and taxonomic biases. Moving forward, enhancing systematic taxonomic studies of Chinese ants—particularly accumulating DNA barcoding databases—is essential to uncover greater ant diversity, monitor invasive species, and inform conservation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics, Evolution and Diversity in Ants)
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14 pages, 2932 KB  
Article
Weed Management Reduces Wild Bee Diversity in Cherry Orchards of the Moroccan Middle Atlas
by Youssef Bencharki, Denis Michez, Guillaume Ghisbain, Michael Baum and Patrick Lhomme
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110782 - 7 Nov 2025
Viewed by 330
Abstract
Pollinators are essential for the productivity of many fruit crops, yet their diversity and abundance can be strongly influenced by local management practices. This study investigates the impact of weed management on the abundance and diversity of wild bee communities in Moroccan cherry [...] Read more.
Pollinators are essential for the productivity of many fruit crops, yet their diversity and abundance can be strongly influenced by local management practices. This study investigates the impact of weed management on the abundance and diversity of wild bee communities in Moroccan cherry orchards (Ain Leuh, Middle Atlas). Using a sampling strategy combining pan traps in the orchard and netting on the cherry flowers and the weeds during the cherry bloom season, we found that weeded orchards had significantly higher bee abundance (i.e., number of specimens), while unweeded orchards supported greater species richness (i.e., number of species). Vegetation structure significantly influences bee activity and the performance of sampling techniques. Yellow pan traps contributed to collecting more individuals in weeded orchards, likely due to enhanced visual contrast in the absence of floral cues. Across all sites, the most observed flower visitors included species from the genera Andrena and Lasioglossum, known as important cherry pollinators. These findings highlight the ecological value of maintaining wildflower resources through reduced weed management intensity and suggest that enhancing floral complexity in orchards can support more diverse and abundant pollinator communities, with potential benefits for crop pollination services. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology of Plant-Pollinators Interactions)
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22 pages, 4526 KB  
Article
Prezygotic and Postzygotic Reproductive Incompatibilities Complement Each Other in the Formation of a Cryptic Amphipod Species: The Example of a Lake Baikal Species Complex Eulimnogammarus verrucosus
by Polina Drozdova, Zhanna Shatilina, Ekaterina Telnes, Anton Gurkov, Alexandra Saranchina, Andrei Mutin, Elena Zolotovskaya and Maxim Timofeyev
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110781 - 6 Nov 2025
Viewed by 409
Abstract
Reproductive barriers to gene flow play a key role in speciation. However, as it is not always feasible to study them directly, most studies rely on genetic divergence to infer species delimitation. In order to correlate genetic distances to reproductive incompatibilities, compact groups [...] Read more.
Reproductive barriers to gene flow play a key role in speciation. However, as it is not always feasible to study them directly, most studies rely on genetic divergence to infer species delimitation. In order to correlate genetic distances to reproductive incompatibilities, compact groups of closely related species are needed. In this work, we explored a species complex of Baikal amphipods (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Gammaroidea), Eulimnogammarus verrucosus. Three biological species (W, S, and E), geographically isolated in Baikal, had been found to have interspecific differences exceeding the patristic distance threshold of 0.16, and a postzygotic incompatibility had been confirmed for the closest pair, W and S. Here, we expanded our knowledge on geographical distribution of the species, discovering that secondary contact between the W and S species already occurs in natural conditions near the source of the Angara River. Our experiments have shown that the three species within the E. verrucosus species complex are separated by both prezygotic and postzygotic barriers. While neither of these barriers is absolute, their combination can ensure reproductive isolation upon secondary contact of the species. The experimental system we have developed in this and previous works can provide support for testing species delimitation hypotheses based on sequencing data and further extend these results to related species for which such experiments are unfeasible. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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13 pages, 526 KB  
Article
The Price of Tail Loss: Implications of Caudal Autotomy and Regeneration on Male Social Hierarchies in a Territorial Lacertid Lizard
by Aris Deimezis-Tsikoutas, Christina Kaskanea-Efthymiou, Efstratios D. Valakos and Panayiotis Pafilis
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110780 - 6 Nov 2025
Viewed by 527
Abstract
Caudal autotomy is a well-known and widely used defensive strategy among lizards, but its impact on social behaviour, particularly in intramale interactions and dominance hierarchies, has been relatively understudied. In this study, we examined the effects of tail autotomy and subsequent regeneration on [...] Read more.
Caudal autotomy is a well-known and widely used defensive strategy among lizards, but its impact on social behaviour, particularly in intramale interactions and dominance hierarchies, has been relatively understudied. In this study, we examined the effects of tail autotomy and subsequent regeneration on the social hierarchy of male Aegean wall lizards (Podarcis erhardii), a territorial species of lacertid lizards. We found that tail loss significantly reduced the ability of adult males to dominate same-sized conspecifics, hinting at a possible difficulty in securing high-quality territories, potentially reducing access to mating opportunities and increasing mortality risks. Both autotomised dominant and intact subordinate males in our interactions adjusted their behaviour following autotomy, with dominant males reducing their aggression and subordinate ones increasing theirs. Surprisingly, tail regeneration did not restore social status or aggression levels to pre-autotomy conditions, suggesting that social costs of tail loss could extend beyond the associated decrease in body size and may persist even after the tail has fully regenerated. These results indicate that caudal autotomy could have lasting consequences on male social interactions and potentially significant implications for reproductive success and survival. Our study highlights the complex role of tail condition in the social dynamics of territorial lizards and calls for further research on the long-term impacts of autotomy on fitness and social structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Diversity)
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14 pages, 6909 KB  
Article
Environmental Niche Differentiation and Past Colonization Dynamics of Two European Freshwater Mussels (Unio crassus and Unio nanus)
by Sarah Egg, Ralph Kuehn and Juergen Geist
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110779 - 6 Nov 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
Understanding species distribution and environmental niches is crucial for conserving endangered taxa. The recent taxonomic split of the European freshwater mussels U. crassus and U. nanus into distinct species requires a reassessment of their distinct ecologies for conservation. This study uses species distribution [...] Read more.
Understanding species distribution and environmental niches is crucial for conserving endangered taxa. The recent taxonomic split of the European freshwater mussels U. crassus and U. nanus into distinct species requires a reassessment of their distinct ecologies for conservation. This study uses species distribution models (SDMs) to define and compare the environmental niches and reconstruct the distributions across six past time periods, starting from the mid-Pliocene Warm Period (mPWP, ca. 3.205 Ma) to the present. Our results reveal significant environmental niche differentiation between the two species, with U. crassus occupying a broader environmental niche primarily influenced by annual mean temperature and precipitation in the warmest quarter. In contrast, U. nanus shows a narrower niche shaped by temperature seasonality, mean diurnal range, annual mean temperature, and precipitation seasonality. Paleodistribution models indicate that during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM, ca. 21 ka), U. crassus persisted in multiple southern refugia, whereas U. nanus was restricted to a single western refugium. These contrasting glacial histories led to divergent post-glacial colonization routes, explaining their current genetic patterns and partially overlapping ranges. By identifying present environmental hotspots, this research provides an essential framework for developing targeted, species-specific conservation strategies for these freshwater mussels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Freshwater Mollusk Research)
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25 pages, 6243 KB  
Article
Diversity and Its Implications of Curcuma Subgenus Hitcheniopsis (Zingiberaceae) with a New Record for Vietnam
by Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Mai Thi Phuong Thuy, Nonthiwat Taesuk, Prasert Ruannakarn, Suriya Phimpha and Thawatphong Boonma
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110778 - 4 Nov 2025
Viewed by 828
Abstract
Curcuma subgenus Hitcheniopsis (Zingiberaceae) comprises species valued for ornamental and medicinal uses in Southeast Asia, yet no comprehensive assessment has been conducted in Vietnam. This study provides the first integrative evaluation of Hitcheniopsis in Vietnam, combining species distribution modeling, field verification, herbarium examination, [...] Read more.
Curcuma subgenus Hitcheniopsis (Zingiberaceae) comprises species valued for ornamental and medicinal uses in Southeast Asia, yet no comprehensive assessment has been conducted in Vietnam. This study provides the first integrative evaluation of Hitcheniopsis in Vietnam, combining species distribution modeling, field verification, herbarium examination, and Ornamental Value Index (OVI) analysis. Ten species were confirmed, including a new national record, C. rhabdota, with voucher specimens establishing its verified presence and extending the known range. Predicted habitat maps highlighted southern Vietnam and adjacent regions as suitable areas, guiding targeted surveys and conservation planning. Flowering occurred from April to September, with species occupying habitats from deciduous dipterocarp to dry evergreen forests. OVI analysis identified C. rhabdota, C. alismatifolia, and C. thorelii as species of high ornamental potential, supporting their use in horticultural breeding and potted ornamental production. Conservation assessments revealed that the endemic C. leonidii and C. pygmaea are Critically Endangered, C. rhabdota is Vulnerable, and C. sparganiifolia is Endangered, emphasizing the urgency of habitat protection and sustainable management. By linking verified diversity, phenology, ornamental value, and habitat modeling, this study establishes a novel, distribution-based framework for research, conservation, and sustainable use of Curcuma subgenus Hitcheniopsis in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Diversity)
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6 pages, 973 KB  
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Round-the-Clock Intelligent Monitoring Technology with UAV to Improve the Efficiency and Quality of Monitoring the Population of Phoca largha
by Yue Zhang, Guoxiang Liao, Zhiguo Dou, Daoyan Xu, Shengjun Yan and Hengtao Bi
Diversity 2025, 17(11), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17110777 - 4 Nov 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 323
Abstract
The spotted seal (Phoca largha), the only pinniped species capable of natural breeding in Chinese waters, serves as a flagship species for the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea marine ecosystems. Changes in its population numbers are an important indicator of [...] Read more.
The spotted seal (Phoca largha), the only pinniped species capable of natural breeding in Chinese waters, serves as a flagship species for the Bohai Sea and the Yellow Sea marine ecosystems. Changes in its population numbers are an important indicator of the status of the marine ecological environment. However, when using traditional monitoring methods, such as telescope inspections and routine unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photography, it is difficult to accurately grasp the changes in spotted seal populations. Here, we document the use of infrared imaging with a UAV to facilitate round-the-clock monitoring of spotted seal numbers in a protected area. This approach revealed that late night and early morning (22:00–05:00) were peak times for their haul-out activity, with a maximum count of 166. This provides a new idea for the investigation and monitoring of marine mammals and the protection of marine ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Habitat Assessment and Conservation Strategies)
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